A recent viral video has captured a disturbing scene at the Toronto India Day Parade, where a group of Khalistani supporters were seen raising anti-India slogans and tearing apart the Indian flag with knives. The footage, shared widely on social media by the X account Mocha Bezirgan, shows the protesters yelling “go back to India,” creating a tense atmosphere at the celebration.
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“GO BACK TO INDIA:” Khalistanis yelled at an India Day gathering at Toronto City Hall while ripping apart the Indian flag with knives.
Their protest to counter the event was billed as the “next face-off” after a confrontation in Surrey, BC, on India’s Independence Day.
Tensions… pic.twitter.com/jaNtXsVMlI
— Mocha Bezirgan 🇨🇦 (@BezirganMocha) August 18, 2024
India Day Parade Marred by Security Concerns
The India Day Parade, the largest Independence Day celebration in Canada, took place at Toronto City Hall. The event was marked by heightened security due to the anticipated counter-rally by pro-Khalistan groups. This year’s parade, held on the first Sunday after August 15, was organized by Panorama India, an umbrella organization for Indo-Canadian cultural groups.
Panorama India’s chairperson, Vaidehi Bhagat, had earlier announced that the parade would feature the “largest Indian flag outside India” and include 20 floats representing various Indian states. However, the presence of Khalistani protesters added an element of unease to the festivities.
Khalistani Rally Increases Tensions
The pro-Khalistan groups had planned a nearby gathering to promote their cause, calling for a ‘face-off’ between ‘Khalistan Sikhs’ and ‘Canadian Hindus.’ This led to increased tensions and a more pronounced security presence around the event.
Despite the heightened security, the incident involving the desecration of the Indian flag by Khalistani supporters overshadowed the cultural performances and the rich display of Indian cuisine at Nathan Phillips Square. This year’s celebration was particularly significant as it marked the silver anniversary of Panorama India’s parade.
Political Context Adds Fuel to the Fire
The situation was further complicated by recent political developments. The pro-Khalistan groups have been emboldened by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s statement on September 18, where he mentioned “credible allegations” linking Indian agents to the murder of pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
Trudeau’s comments, claiming that Canadian authorities had “credible” intelligence suggesting involvement by Indian government agents, have strained relations between India and Canada. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has strongly denied these claims, rejecting any attempts to connect the Indian government to such incidents and reiterating its commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law.
Impact on Indo-Canadian Relations
The desecration of the Indian flag at Toronto India Day Parade and the ongoing tensions between India and Canada highlight the growing challenges faced by the Indo-Canadian community. As both nations navigate this complex situation, events like the India Day Parade will continue to be a focal point for broader geopolitical and social issues.